Synopsis:

“There’s a moon in the sky. It looks like a drum, which guides the earth where Taan is from.”

So begins a year in the life of Taan, which means “bear” in the Haida Language.

Alison Gear has based this wonderfully engaging and thoughtful story on one version of the Haida Moon cycle. It follows Taan as she experiences the wonder of the unfolding seasons.

Kiki van der Heiden worked closely with the children on Haida Gwaii to create the absolutely stunning felted artwork that gracefully complements each page of Taan’s story.

This is a story woven together by the community on Haida Gwaii.

Alison and Kiki worked closely with elders, teachers, children, parents, and caregivers to produce this unforgettable book. The title of each moon cycle has been translated into both Skidegate and Old Massett Haida, honouring language and wisdom. The children involved in this project, under Kiki’s gentle guidance, were hands-on each rendering of the felt pieces until they became the sculpted illustrations currently featured in Taan’s Moons.

When award-winning, best-selling author Richard Van Camp visited Haida Gwaii, he had the opportunity to read the manuscript for Taan’s Moons. He graciously agreed to contribute the heartfelt Foreword, which begins:

“Welcome to Taan’s Moons, one of the most beautiful books I have ever witnessed.”

We agree, Richard. We certainly agree.

We also want to give sincere thanks to Joanne Yovanovich, Tawni Davidson, Beng Favreau, and ArtStarts in Schools for their contribution to and support of this important book.

Authenticity Note: This book has been given the Authentic Indigenous Text label because of the collaboration of Indigenous peoples to create this work. It is up to readers to determine if it is authentic for their purposes.